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Optician

An optician, or dispensing optician, is a technical practitioner who designs, fits and dispenses corrective lenses for the correction of a person's vision. Opticians determine the specifications of various ophthalmic appliances that will give the necessary correction to a person's eyesight. Opticians work in various settings including doctor’s offices, retail locations, and independent shops.

Ohio opticians are licensed under chapter 4725 of the Ohio Revised Code. There are three paths to licensure in Ohio:

Earn a degree in optical dispensing from a Board-approved school (found in Links).

Complete a two-year registered apprenticeship of at least one thousand (1000) hours per year in optical dispensing under the direct supervision of a licensed dispensing optician, of which one year of not less than 30 hours per week of optical laboratory under the direct supervision of a licensed dispensing optician may be used towards the apprenticeship requirements.

Complete two years of experience of at least one thousand (1000) hours per year under the direct supervision and in the employment of an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Applicants for licensure must be 18 years of age, be of good moral character, and be a graduate of an accredited high school or have attained an educational equivalent, such as a GED. Applicants must also pass a National Qualifying Exam administered by either the American Board of Opticianry (spectacle dispensers) and/or the National Contact Lens Examiners (dual or contact lens dispeners). Passage of a background check is also required for licensure.